BIOLOGY

Credit Points

20

Course Coordinator

Dr L H Chappell and Dr G Bewick

Pre-requisites

None

Co-requisites

None

Overview

Organismal Biology explores the challenges of being alive. After an initial consideration of the origins of life on earth and the incredible diversity of living organisms on this planet, you will investigate how this myriad of microbes, plants and animals succeed in reproducing themselves, growing and developing, moving, gaining nutrition from their environments, deriving energy from it and disposing of the waste products. You will also consider how all these different organisms regulate these activities in ways which enable them to survive in a constantly changing hostile environment. The module takes an integrated approach to the study of these life processes, taking a broad view accross the whole range of living organisms.

Structure

12 weeks - 4 one-hour lectures per week and one three-hour practical class every other week.

To pass this course a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: One 2 hour MCQ examination (60%) and in-course assessment (40%).
Resit: A resit exam, in the same format as the main exam. This may contain material from both the practical and lecture components of the course.

Credit Points

20

Course Coordinator

Dr Kath Shennan & Dr Joy Perkins

Pre-requisites

None

Co-requisites

None

Overview

"The Cell" will examine the fundamental structures of the cell that determine its properties using examples drawn from microorganisms, animals and plants. It will also introduce fundamentals of the molecules that are central to these structures and will explain the core biochemistry of some of these processes at an appropriate level of detail. After an initial consideration of the properties of cells, you will investigate how the variety seen in cell types is actually based on common designs and structures. You will learn about the different classes of biological molecules, their roles in the cell and how they are made. You will also consider how specialised structures are needed to achieve different biological processes. You will investigate how cells grow and divide and how cell death is an important process in the organisation of cells into tissues. The module takes an integrated approach to the study of these processes, involving a broad view across the whole range of living organisms.

Structure

12 weeks - 4 one-hour lectures per week and one three-hour practical class every other week.

To pass this course a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: One 2 hour MCQ examination (60%) and in-course assessment (40%).

Resit: A resit exam, in the same format as the main exam. This may contain material from both the practical and lecture components of the course.

Credit Points

20

Course Coordinator

Dr Martyn L Gorman and Dr Pete Smith

Pre-requisites

None

Co-requisites

None

Overview

The study of ecology and environmental issues requires us to integrate information from many different subject areas and from a range of habitats, from terrestrial to marine. This course achieves this with an exciting multidisciplinary approach, combining key topics from biology, chemistry, ecology, environmental science and the earth sciences. The course integrates study across spatial scales moving from populations to terrestrial and marine communities to ecosystems and then from ecosystems to the wider environment and the global system. The following topics are covered by the course: biodiversity, conservation, population ecology, community ecology, ecosystem ecology, the causes and consequences of global environmental change, waste management and recycling, pollution problems associated with the mining and extraction industries, causes and consequences of acid deposition, and agriculture and the environment (including genetically modified organisms). The environmental topics are based on a foundational understanding of biogeochemical cycling and ecosystem functioning which are provided during the course. The course also considers the policies, legislation and practical management options that are being used in an attempt to deal with environmental problems.

Structure

12 weeks - 4 one-hour lectures per week and one three-hour practical class every other week.

To pass this course a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour MCQ examination (60%) and in-course assessments (40%).

Resit: A resit exam, in the same format as the main exam. This may contain material from both the practical and lecture components of the course.

Credit Points

20

Course Coordinator

Dr I E Edwards

Pre-requisites

None

Overview

This course sets out to describe the main productive enterprises to be found in rural areas of Britain and elsewhere and to analyse the main rural areas of Britain and elsewhere and to analyse the main rural social and policy issues. Coverage includes land use and tenure; the historical development of agriculture and forestry; agricultural systems and the influence of technological change and limitations to productivity; silviculture systems and forest management techniques; main tree species for timber, amenity and arboriculture; forest landscape design; environmental conservation, the problems and methods; leisure sector activities including tourism; rural planning and environmental and physical regulations; rural communities and current countryside issues.

Structure

12 week course - 5 one-hour lectures per week.

Assessment

1st Attempt: One two-hour written examination.

Resit: As 1st attempt.

Credit Points

5

Course Coordinator

Dr I E Edwards

Pre-requisites

Available only to candidates for the degree of BSc Agriculture Science, BSc Agriculture & Business Management and Wildlife Management or MA in Rural Development.

Overview

This residential field course of up to one weeks duration is compulsory for all students taking the above course. Based in Northern Scotland students examine a wide range of Land Uses particularly Agriculture and Forestry in field visits, field exercises supplemented with lectures and seminars on land use, regulatory and other relevant organisations. Class exercises use information from the visits to gain experience in elementary management techniques.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Work in groups is monitored and a satisfactory standard is required to pass the course.

Credit Points

10

Course Coordinator

Professor I J Alexander

Pre-requisites

None

Co-requisites

BI 1004, BI 1508

Overview

Students are given instruction on how to use a flora and have the opportunity to become familiar with the important elements in the coastal, woodland, moorland and montane flora of North Sutherland. The relationship between geology, soils, land use and vegetation is stressed. Small projects which introduce methods for the objective description of vegetation are carried out.

Structure

7 days field work at the beginning of the summer vacation.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment 50% plant identification; 50% project reports.

Resit: Retake course

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M D Swaine and Dr M R Young

Pre-requisites

BI1004

Overview

This course deals with all major aspects of animal and plant community ecology, including: the cycling of matter and energy in ecosystems; decomposition; numerical approaches to community analysis; diversity, succession, stability and chaos; how communities are shaped by competition, predation and herbivory; plant/herbivore interactions; the niche concept and resource partitioning; the dynamics of colonisation and extinction; ecology and evolution of island communities; consequences of animal behaviour, including habitat selection, foraging behaviour and social organisation in birds, ungulates and primates. Lectures will be supported by laboratory and field exercises in techniques for community description and analysis, the measurement of dynamic processes and experimental approaches to understanding community dynamics.

Structure

12 weeks - 3 lectures and 1 laboratory session per week.

To pass this course a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two and 1 one-hour written examination papers (72%) and in-course assessment of 10 laboratory reports (28%).

Resit:A resit exam, in the same format as the main exam. This may contain material from both the practical and lecture components of the course.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor D J Shaw and Dr C Wilcock

Pre-requisites

BI1004, BI 1507 and CM 1010 or CM 1011

Co-requisites

TS 1001 for students whose background warrants it.

Overview

The aim of this course is to give all biology students a basic understanding of the fundamental biological processes of genetics and evolution. Evolution is unified by the concept of continual change at the phenotypic level, underpinned by genetic changes of different kinds at the molecular level. The content of the course draws on material at all levels of complexity from the molecular, to the whole organism, to the population. There is a balance between molecular and organismal biology, and broader issues such as human population history.
Major topics:

• The key genetic and evolutionary concepts


• Evolution at the gene level


• Evolution at the genome level


• Evolution at the organism level


• Evolution at the population level and the origin of species


• Macroevolution (evolution of major organism groups).

Structure

12 weeks - 3 one-hour lectures per week; a total of 6 three-hour practicals and 2 one-hour tutorials.

To pass this course a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 2 hour written examination (75%), in-course assessment (25%).

Resit:A resit exam, in the same format as the main exam. This may contain material from both the practical and lecture components of the course.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr G T A McEwan, Dr K I J Shennan, Dr A S Bowman

Pre-requisites

BI1004 and BI1507

Overview

Cells are the fundamental units of life. This course will provide a basic appreciation of the biology of animal cells, including the structural organisation of cells; the properties of cell membranes, consideration of membrane transport processes and the energy required for their maintenance; how proteins are targeted to their correct location; the mechanisms cells use to communicate with each other locally and over long distances. You will also be given an appreciation of how cells control their shape and movement; the manner in which cells divide, grow and die; and how individual cell types develop and organise themselves into tissues.

Structure

12 weeks - 3 one-hour lectures and 1 three-hour practical per fortnight.

To pass this course a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: MCQ and short answers (2 hour exam) (70%) and in-course assessment (30%).

Resit:A resit exam, in the same format as the main exam. This may contain material from both the practical and lecture components of the course.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr T Stuchbury

Pre-requisites

BI1004 and CM 1010/11)

Overview

Composition of foodstuffs and their suitability for use in farm animal, companion animal and human diets. Digestion and utilisation of foodstuffs. Factors affecting palatability and intake. The relationship between diet and health. Evaluation of diets. Dietary selection, rationing and feed formulation. Food processing and nutritional value. The importance of balancing nutrient intake with requirements will be covered in the context of human and animal health and welfare. Students will monitor their food intake for one week and calculate their intakes of energy and macro and micro-nutrients.

A series of CAL sessions/visits/feeds formulation practical sessions.

Structure

12 weeks - Three one-hour lectures per week and six three-hour practical sessions.

To pass this course a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Two hour written exam (75%) and in-course assessment (25%).

Resit:A resit exam, in the same format as the main exam.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr I E Edwards

Pre-requisites

LM 1502 or permission of Head of Department.

Overview

Management strategy; business documents and financial recording and Principles of accounts, including Budget Builder, a computer assisted learning package; See Practicals; statements of accounts; interpretation of accounts; accounts, taxation, grants and financial decisions; Business structure and establishment.

Forest valuation; discounting; management accounting; the market environment.

Structure

12 week course - A total of 5 hours per week comprising lectures or practical classes.

To pass this course a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination (70%) and in-course assessment (30%).

Resit: As first attempt.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr G Riedel

Pre-requisites

BI1004, BI1507, CM 1010 or CM 1011 and CM 1506. Students without these qualifications, may be admitted at the discretion of the Head of School.

Overview

How does your body work? How do nerves and muscles communicate with each other, for example, in the fine control needed to play a musical instrument, or in keeping you heart beating throughout your life? How do you gather information from the environment, using all your senses, process and assess it in your brain so that you can take the appropriate action?
This course, which is complemented by BI 20B1, will explain how nerves and hormones work together to control the different cells and organs of the human body which are specialised to execute these and many other intricate functions.

Structure

12 weeks - 3 lectures and 1 lab session per week.

To pass this course a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour examination. In-course assessment of practical work. Optional oral.

Resit: 1 two-hour examination.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M C Wright

Pre-requisites

BI1004, BI1507 and CM 1010. TS 1001 strongly recommended for students with C or less at Higher (or equivalent) in Mathematics or Physics.

Overview

This course deals with the rapidly developing fields of modern molecular genetics, genetic technology and the study of genes in families and populations. It includes a survey of the organisation of DNA within genes and chromosomes, DNA replication and repair, the processes and control of gene expression, gene transfer and mobility, mutations, and the structure of proteins. Work on genetic technology includes consideration of the use of recombinant DNA and the polymerase chain reaction, and the applications of biotechnology. Modes of inheritance, the mechanisms of linkage and recombination, genetic mapping, genetic evolution and aspects of human and medical genetics are also surveyed.

Structure

3 one-hour lectures per week; a total of 4 three-hour practical classes; a total of 3 one-hour tutorials.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination (80%); in-course assessment - 3 practical reports (20%).
Resit: As for main exam.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr C C Wilcock

Pre-requisites

BI1004

Overview

Plants dominate our landscape, and our lives, as they have done throughout our history. This is largely due to their diversity as a result of their remarkable ability to adapt to life in a changing environment and, more recently, to man. This course reviews the origins and extent of this diversity and illustrates how molecular approaches give insights into the nature and causes of plant diversity. The major groups are covered: bryophytes, ferns and their allies, gymnosperms and flowering plants. The course highlights the distinguishing features of each group of plant and analyses how their diversity may have arisen. The origin and domestication of food plants is outlined with special attention to the role of man in the breeding of wheat, barley and rice and to the more recent novel methods of generating plant diversity by genetic modification. The importance of fungi is discussed, with emphasis on their nutritional strategies, both as important plant pathogens and symbionts, and decomposers. The practical sessions illustrate a wide diversity of plants and fungi and the techniques used to investigate them.

Structure

12 weeks - 3 one-hour lectures and 1 three-hour laboratory session per week.

To pass this course, a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour examination (75%) and in-course assessment (25%).

Resit: 1 two-hour written exam for all candidates and a 1 hour exam on in-course material for those who failed this assessment.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M L Gorman

Pre-requisites

BI1004 and BI1507

Overview

Vertebrate Zoology adopts a comparative approach to the study of vertebrate animals and the structure and function of their organ systems. The course reviews and describes the main vertebrate groups; fish, amphibians, reptiles (including dinosaurs), birds and mammals, emphasising their evolution, adaptations and diversity. The course also includes the evolution of the immune system, including applications of immunology; physiology of the respiratory, circulatory and osmoregulatory systems; thermoregulation; and sense organs (especially those concerned with hearing). The lectures are supplemented by suitable practical exercises designed to teach a variety of skills which include microscopy,analysis and interpretation of data, dissection (of the trout), word-processing and report-writing, presentation, and group project work.

Structure

12 weeks - 3 lectures and 1 three-hour laboratory session per week.

To pass this course a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination (55%), and in-course assessment of laboratory work (45%).
Resit: A resit exam, in the same format as the main exam. This may contain material from both the practical and lecture components of the course.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr G Pugh Humphreys

Pre-requisites

BI1004 and BI1507 and CM 1010 or CM 1011

Overview

A small but very important group of organisms (bacteria, fungi, viruses, protozoa and helminths) have the capacity to cause disease in man and animals. The immune system provides the major defence against infecting organisms. An understanding of the balance between the infecting organism and the body's defence mechanisms lies at the heart of modern biological science. The study of these defences and of the mechanisms used by infecting organisms to defend themselves and evade destruction is central to the fields of microbiology, parasitology, medicine, immunology and pathology. This course will focus on infectious agents of humans, and use them as examples to present the components of the immune system, their interactions and function at the cellular level, and the tricks used by pathogens to evade such defences. Techniques to control infection including anti infection drugs and vaccines will be considered, and the challenging cell biology and epidemiology of emerging infections will be presented.

Structure

12 weeks - 3 one-hour lectures per week, 1 practical (3 hours) or tutorial (1 hour) per week.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination (60%) and in course assessment (40%).

To pass this course, a pass must be achieved in both components. The in-course assessment comprises 6 practicals (24%), a 3000 word essay (8%) and two mini-tests (8%).

Resit: A resit exam in the same format as the main exam and a one-hour exam on in-course material for those who failed the in-course assessment.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr P M Thompson and Dr S J Woodin

Pre-requisites

None

Notes

Available only to students in programme year 2 or above.

Overview

This course aims to provide a basic understanding of the principles of conservation biology, using a wide range of case studies from local Scottish habitats and species to those in more diverse tropical systems. It provides an overview of the nature, value and threats to biodiversity and details the problems faced by small populations of plants and animals. Whilst focusing on scientific aspects of conservation biology, this inter-disciplinary course covers the legislative, ethical, economic and management frameworks in which practical conservation action is taken. The course has been designed to be suitable for both biologists and non-biologists.

Structure

12 weeks - 3 lectures per week and 6 three-hour tutorial/practical/fieldwork sessions.

To pass this course, a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination(60%) and in-course assessment of practical reports and written work (40%).

Resit: A resit exam, in the same format as the main exam. This may contain material from both the practical and lecture components of the course.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr T Stuchbury

Pre-requisites

LM 1502

Overview

Animal Production:-
The Management of selected animal production enterprises will be discussed in terms of:

1. survival, growth, reproduction and lactation;


2. the role of genetics, feeding, climatic influences and farmers/stockpeople/carers;


3. sound production systems in terms of health, animal welfare, animal performance, production efficiency and sustainability;


4. product quality.

Crop and Grassland Production:-
The management of the selected arable enterprises and grassland production will be discussed in terms of:

1. management of the physical properties of the soil;


2. crop establishment;


3. matching nutrient supply to crop demand;


4. control of weeds, diseases and pests;


5. crop harvesting, storage and utilisation.

Structure

12 week course - 4 one-hour lectures per week and a farm visit.

To pass this course a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination (75%) and in-course assessment (25%).

Resit: As first attempt.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr A Jack

Pre-requisites

BI1004 and BI1507, CM 1010 or CM 1011 and CM 1506. Students without those qualifications may be admitted at the discretion of the Head of School.

Overview

Having learned some of the cellular control mechanisms in BI 25B3 this course asks: How do the major body organs and systems work – both alone and in communication with one another? How do we adapt to changing circumstances, control breathing as required, adjust to our nutritional needs, spawn new generations?
Taking the knowledge learned in BI 20B2 forward, this course will explore the physiology behind the way in which the heart supplies even the furthest extremities with nutrition and oxygen and how gases are extracted from the air we breathe by our lungs. The kidney (fluid balance), the digestive system (nutrition) and the reproductive systems will also be explained in detail. Complemented by BI 25B3 this course will provide an overview of what goes on inside your body, and what happens when it goes wrong.

Structure

12 weeks - 3 lectures per week and 4 lab sessions.

To pass this course a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour exam paper. In-course assessment on practical work. Optional oral.

Resit: As 1st attempt - 1 two-hour exam paper.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr I Stewart

Pre-requisites

BI1004 and BI1507

Notes

The practical work required in this course may pose difficulties to students with disabilites. If the situation arises alternative arrangements will be made. Any student wishing to discuss this further should contact the School Disability Co-ordinator.

Overview

This course will explain the structure and organisation of the chief organ systems of the human body. The heart, blood vessels, lungs and kidneys for example allow exchange of gases, fluids and metabolites between the body and external environment. What do these organ systems look like and how are they organised to permit the body to copy efficiently with widely differing physical demands? By dealing with questions such as these you will be provided with an up to date picture of the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, nervous, respiratory, endocrine,alimentary and reproductive systems.

Structure

12 weeks - 3 one-hour lectures a week. 4-3 hour practicals each associated with a 1 hour in-course assessment exercise/tutorial a week later.

To pass this course a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: MCQ plus short answers (two-hour exam) (70%) and in-course assessment (30%).

Resit:MCQ and short answers (2 hour exam) (70%), together with in-course assessment from 1st attempt (30%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr W F Long

Pre-requisites

BI1004 and BI1507 and CM 1010 or CM 1011. TS 1001 strongly recommended for students with C or less at Higher(or equivalent) in Mathematics or Physics.

Overview

This course deals with the ways in which molecular events within cells are organised and controlled. Following a brief biochemical tour of the cell, the mechanisms by which chemical energy is harvested within cells is studied by reference to the processes of glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, the breakdown of fatty acids, the terminal respiration system and oxidative phosphorylation. Mechanisms by which complex molecules are built from simple precursers is explored. Gluconeogenesis, glycogen synthesis, photosynthesis, the glyoxylate cycle, the pentose phosphate pathway and amino-acid metabolism are used to illustrate general concepts. A survey of the ways in which chemical events are catalysed is included, and the course concludes by examining the mechanisms by which cell activity may be influenced by the rates of flow occurring in net-worked systems of reactions.

Structure

3 one-hour lectures per week; a total of 3 three-hour practical classes; a total of 4 one-hour tutorials.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination (80%) and in-course assessment (20%).

Resit:As for main exam.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr J Perkins

Pre-requisites

BI1004 and BI1507 CM 1010 or CM 1011, TS 1001 for students with C or less at Higher (or equivalent) in Maths or Physics.

Notes

This course will be running in the second half-session.

Overview

Microorganisms bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa and viruses occupy all niches of this planet, from the deepest oceans to the human body. Their success in such a wide variety of environments is dependent on their diversity and adaptability. This course is an introduction to the biology and ecology of microorganisms. Its scope encompasses the study of the organisms both in pure culture and in mixed populations in a range of natural habitats. It stresses the importance of man’s relationships with microorganisms, from disease to the maintenance of a clean environment. A field trip to a distillery to emphasize the importance of microbes in biotechnology also forms part of the course.

Structure

3 one-hour lectures per week; a total of 1 three-hour practical class per week.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination (70%) and in-course assessment (30%).

Resit: As for main exam.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr A Price

Pre-requisites

BI1004 and BI1507

Co-requisites

None

Overview

Life on earth depends on plants. Their unique ability to split oxygen from water has resulted in an atmosphere that is not only suitable to breathe, but which protects DNA from the lethal effects of UV irradiance. This ability to liberate oxygen from water has both set the stage for evolution and ensured life as we know it. Plants do other things as well: in addition to being the single most important converters of radiant energy into forms that can be used to sustain life, they make a vast array of complex products that are of great use to man, and which are central to the functioning of ecosystems.


This course explores the major aspects of modern plant biology, indicating their relevance to natural and managed ecosystems, man and the environment. It covers key products made by plants, and their uses; services provided by plants (such as cleaning air, water and soil); the ways in which plants are manipulated by man, and some of the problems faced by plants themselves.

Structure

12 weeks - 3 one-hour lectures per week, and one 3 hour practical per fortnight.

To pass this course, a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination (75%) and in-course assessment (25%), of 5 practical reports, 3 written in the practical and 2 handed in after one week. Each count 5%.

Resit: A 2 hour written exam for all candidates ( in the same format as the main exam) and a 1 hour exam on in-course material for those who have failed this assessment.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr C S Jones

Pre-requisites

BI1004

Overview

Ninety-seven percent of living organisms are invertebrates belonging to around 31 phyla. Their diversity of form and organisation is astonishing and their classification complex and controversial. Their life styles and life histories are frequently bizarre and their occupation of diverse, often hostile, environments spectacular. They are a major food resource for many vertebrates, including man; some wreak havoc through parasitism whilst others inflict enormous damage as agricultural pests. This course briefly reviews classification of invertebrate animals and examines functional aspects of their biology: locomotion, nutrition, reproduction, and nervous co-ordination and control. Weekly practicals address the important biological principles and encourage development of basic scientific skills including experimental design, hypothesis testing and data analysis in the context of individual and group learning.

Structure

12 weeks - 3 lectures and 1 three-hour laboratory per week.

To pass this course a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment there will be a 1 hour exam on in-course material.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination (50%) and in-course assessment of laboratory work (50%).

Resit: A resit exam, in the same format as the main exam. This may contain material from both the practical and lecture components of the course.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor U Witte

Pre-requisites

BI1004 or MR 1008

Overview

The aim is to develop a pragmatic understanding of the biology of marine organisms with an emphasis on species of commercial significance. Marine food chains are reviewed including micro-organisms, algae and plankton in relation to primary production in the seas. Animals considered include sponges, corals, jelly-fish, rotifers, tube-worms, mussels, scallops, squid, shipworm, barnacles, copepods, prawns, krill, sea-urchins, starfish, sharks, herring, halibut, tuna and whales. For each species the life cycle and production will be discussed together with impacts and significance to man. The course is accessible to non-biologists. For biologists it provides a specialist introduction to marine species.

Structure

12 weeks - 3 one-hour lectures and 1 three-hour laboratory per week.

To pass this course a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination (40%), 1 one-hour written examination (20%). In-course assessment of laboratory work (40%).

Resit: A resit exam, in the same format as the main exam. This may contain material from both the practical and lecture components of the course.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr P J Fraser

Pre-requisites

BI1004

Notes

(i) Available only to students in programme year 2 and above.
(ii) The course may pose difficulties to students with certain disabilities. After consultation we will advise students which course offers the best opportunity. We will make provision, on an individual basis, and will provide alternatives for those activities that would pose insurmountable difficulties to achieve. (iii) Places may be limited to those taking Zoology Honours Degrees.

Overview

The aim of the field course is to introduce students to methods for the collection of animals and their identification, assessment of population densities and an appreciation of the relationships between animals and their habitats. Techniques of field sampling of animals will be demonstrated and methods of analysis will be taught in the laboratory. Up to fifty per cent of the course consists of an independent investigation.

Structure

The course runs for at least 6 working days.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Assessment is based on presentation of a short written account of the course work or a seminar presentation and performance during the course. Resit: No resit for field courses.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr Jim McDonald

Pre-requisites

No pre-requisites but the course will be available only to students taking degrees in a biological science.

Overview

Scientific method will be taught through experimental design of a combined laboratory and field experiment; data handling and statistical analysis; analysis of molecular sequence data and phylogenies; writing a scientific report; project planning; assessment of peer submissions. Presentation skills and training in accessing library and sequence databases are also covered.
Statistical analysis will be on known datasets and on those generated by the students in practical sessions. Worked examples and case studies will be themed to provide material for a Scientific Manuscript. Training on software suitable for handling, manipulating, testing and presenting data is an integral part of the course.

Structure

Thread II: 6 weeks – 4 lectures per week; one full day practical per week; 1 tutorial per week.

To pass this course, a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour examination (40%) and in-course assessment (60%). Oral examination for borderline candidates.

Resit: A resit exam, in the same format as the main exam. This may contain material from both the practical and lecture components of the course.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr P Fowler

Pre-requisites

BI 20Z1 or BI 25M1 or BI 25B2

Overview

The Gonads, sexual differentiation, ovarian and testicular function and their control; Reproductive rhythms, puberty, oestrous/menstrual cycles, fertilisation, implantation, placentation, embryo development, changes in the mother, complications of pregnancy; Perinatal events, parturition, lactation, maternal behaviour; Fertility, manipulation of reproduction, induction and inhibition of fertility.

Structure

Thread I: 6 week course - 25 hours lectures, 6 hours tutorials, 4 hours student seminars and 7 hours laboratories/visits per course. Slots A & E weeks 30-35.

To pass this course, a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour examination (70%); essay and practical book assessment.

Resit: A resit exam, in the same format as the main exam. This may contain material from both the practical and lecture components of the course.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr C C Wilcock

Pre-requisites

BI 2001

Notes

(i) Available to students in programme year 3 or above.

Overview

This course explores the diversity and ecology of interactions of plants with both mammals and insects and discusses the underlying evolutionary processes involved. The course examines different ways plants and animals interact and outlines the benefits the participating organisms receive from this interaction. Topics covered are: coevolution; pollination and seed dispersal by animals; herbivory and animal responses to plant defensive chemicals; mammalian and insect herbivores; plant-nematode and plant-mollusc interactions; and applied aspects of plant-animal interactions including biological control. Recent advances in the subject are emphasised.

Structure

Thread I: 6 week course - 24 hours lectures, one 3 hour workshop, one 3 hour seminar.

To pass this course, a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour examination (67%) and in-course assessment (33%) which comprises a 2000 word essay and 2 reports.

Resit: A two-hour written examination for all candidates and a 1 hour exam on in-course material for those who have failed the assessment.

Credit Points

60

Course Coordinator

Dr L H Chappell

Pre-requisites

Available only to level 4 candidates for Honours in Biology.

Overview

Research (45 Credit Points) project and essay (15 Credits Points) conducted under the supervision of a member of staff in an appropriate department.

Assessment

Resit (for Honours students only): Candidates achieving a CAS mark of 6-8 may be awarded compensatory level 1 credit. Candidates achieving a CAS mark of less than 6 will be required to submit themselves for re-assessment and should contact the Course Co-ordinator for further details.

Credit Points

45

Course Coordinator

Dr L H Chappell

Pre-requisites

Available only to level 4 candidates for Honours in Biology (Environmental Science).

Co-requisites

BI 4301

Overview

Research project on some aspect of environmental science under the supervision of a member of staff in an appropriate department.

Assessment

Resit (for Honours students only): Candidates achieving a CAS mark of 6-8 may be awarded compensatory level 1 credit. Candidates achieving a CAS mark of less than 6 will be required to submit themselves for re-assessment and should contact the Course Co-ordinator for further details.

Credit Points

45

Course Coordinator

Dr L Chappell

Pre-requisites

Available only to level 4 candidates for Honours in Conservation Biology who must have achieved a performance acceptable to the Course Co-ordinator in appropriate courses at Level 3.

Co-requisites

PL 3003

Overview

An independent research project.

Structure

6 weeks full time and 6 weeks half time of supervised research on a topic in conservation biology during the first half session.

Assessment

Resit (for Honours students only): Candidates achieving a CAS mark of 6-8 may be awarded compensatory level 1 credit. Candidates achieving a CAS mark of less than 6 will be required to submit themselves for re-assessment and should contact the Course Co-ordinator for further details.

Credit Points

45

Course Coordinator

Dr L H Chappell

Pre-requisites

Available only to level 4 candidates for Honours in Environmental Biology.

Co-requisites

BI 4301

Overview

Research project on some aspect of environmental science under the supervision of a member of staff in an appropriate department.

Assessment

Resit (for Honours students only): Candidates achieving a CAS mark of 6-8 may be awarded compensatory level 1 credit. Candidates achieving a CAS mark of less than 6 will be required to submit themselves for re-assessment and should contact the Course Co-ordinator for further details.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr G I Paton

Pre-requisites

BI1004 and either SS 2503 or BI 2001.

Overview

This course covers the effects, monitoring and control of pollution in terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems. Topics include (i) problems associated with the disposal of sewage sludge and industrial toxic wastes and the interaction of these pollutants with plants, soils and ground waters; (ii) freshwater pollution, particularly the impact of organic pollutants and monitoring methods including the use of biotic indices; (iii) biological effects of atmospheric pollution, field assessment of damage, ecological approaches to pollution control, and national and international control legislation.

Structure

Thread I: 6 weeks - 4 lectures per week and one whole day practical activity.

To pass this course, a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour examination (67%) and in-course assessment (33%).

Resit (for Honours students only): Candidates achieving a CAS mark of 6-8 may be awarded compensatory level 1 credit. Candidates achieving a CAS mark of less than 6 will be required to submit themselves for re-assessment and should contact the Course Co-ordinator for further details.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr C Gordon and Dr M R Young

Pre-requisites

BI 2001

Overview

The scientific and administrative basis of nature conservation, with emphasis on selection and management of reserves and ecological aspects of conservation in the wider countryside. Both vegetation and fauna are considered as well as environmental monitoring. Case studies and site visits are included.

Structure

6 week course, Thread I (A, E, F)- 3 lectures or 2 lectures and 1 field trip per week.

To pass this course, a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour examination (67%) and in-course assessment (33%) consisting of a group poster, an individual poster report and a research proposal.

Resit (for Honours students only): Candidates achieving a CAS mark of 6-8 may be awarded compensatory level 1 credit. Candidates achieving a CAS mark of less than 6 will be required to submit themselves for re-assessment and should contact the Course Co-ordinator for further details.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor D Robinson

Pre-requisites

Available to students in programme year 4 except with permission of the Head of School.

Overview

Advanced concepts in the biological and environmental sciences that are of contemporary importance will be introduced. These will form the basis for structured discussions and debates and the preparation of essays or reports.

Structure

6 week course, Thread II – 6 two-hour tutorials.

Assessment

1st Attempt: in-course assessment (100%).

Resit (for Honours students only): Candidates achieving a CAS mark of 6-8 may be awarded compensatory level 1 credit. Candidates achieving a CAS mark of less than 6 will be required to submit themselves for re-assessment and should contact the Course Co-ordinator for further details.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr L H Chappell

Pre-requisites

BI 4004. Available only to candidates for Honours in Conservation Biology.

Overview

A review essay on a topic in conservation biology completed under the guidance of a member of staff during the second half session.

Structure

6 weeks - One meeting per week with the essay supervisor.

Assessment

Resit (for Honours students only): Candidates achieving a CAS mark of 6-8 may be awarded compensatory level 1 credit. Candidates achieving a CAS mark of less than 6 will be required to submit themselves for re-assessment and should contact the Course Co-ordinator for further details.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M R Young

Pre-requisites

BI 4004. Available only to candidates for Honours in Conservation Biology.

Overview

Students will be introduced to topics which are currently important within Conservation Biology (such as the advisability of re-introducing beavers to Britain; or the most effective ways of selecting tropical forest fragments as reserves). Each topic will be introduced and students will then have to research it, produce a written account of it, and then contribute to a tutorial or seminar. There will be an element of student choice in the topics covered.

Structure

Thread I: 6 weeks - 4 two-hour discussions

Assessment

1st Attempt: in-course assessment (100%). Four in-term essays.

Resit (for Honours students only): Candidates achieving a CAS mark of 6-8 may be awarded compensatory level 1 credit. Candidates achieving a CAS mark of less than 6 will be required to submit themselves for re-assessment and should contact the Course Co-ordinator for further details.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr J Smith

Pre-requisites

Only available to students in programme year 3 and above.

Overview

The course aims to develop confidence, competence and ability in modelling Ecological and Environmental topics starting with a discussion of background issues required for modelling. Skills in modelling at the regional, field and sub-field scale are developed through a combination of sequential lectures, computer classes and tutorials on carbon and nitrogen in the environment and in plant communities. A strong focus on the purpose of modelling is introduced through examples and discussion of how models are used to direct public policy and advice (global climate change, nitrate pollution and crop management).

Structure

Thread ll: 6 week course - 7 one-hour lectures, 3 three-hour computer classes and 3 one-hour tutorials.

Assessment

1st Attempt: in-course assessment (100%).

Resit (for Honours students only): Candidates achieving a CAS mark of 6-8 may be awarded compensatory level 1 credit. Candidates achieving a CAS mark of less than 6 will be required to submit themselves for re-assessment and should contact the Course Co-ordinator for further details.